Private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail with Winterfell Strangford Lough Ferry

If you’re considering a day trip that combines history, stunning scenery, and a touch of pop culture, this private Ards Peninsula St Patrick Trail tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded experience that’s both flexible and memorable.

What really catches our eye are the personalized private transport and flexible itinerary, allowing you to focus on what interests you most. Plus, visiting key Saint Patrick landmarks alongside Game of Thrones filming sites makes for a unique blend of history and entertainment. The only thing to consider is that at around $964 per person, this tour isn’t on the cheap side, but the comprehensive experience and private service could be worth it for those wanting a tailored day out. It’s ideal for travelers who love a mix of culture, nature, and a bit of cinematic magic, especially if you appreciate the comfort of private transportation and expert insights.

Key Points

• Customizable Itinerary: The private nature means you can prioritize attractions that interest you most.
• Historical and Cultural Highlights: Learn about Saint Patrick and explore sacred sites like Down Cathedral and Inch Abbey.
• Scenic Viewpoints: Enjoy breathtaking views from Scrabo Tower and along Strangford Lough.
• Game of Thrones Locations: Visit Castle Ward, used as Winterfell, and Inch Abbey, a filming favorite.
• Convenience: Round-trip private transfers from Belfast save time and hassle.
• Value for Price: Includes many entrances and ferry tickets, making it a well-rounded, all-in-one experience.

A Full Day of Discovery — What the Tour Looks Like

This tour packs a lot into roughly 6 to 8 hours, covering everything from panoramic viewpoints to sacred sites, all tailored to your interests. The journey begins with Scrabo Tower, a towering Scottish Baronial-style folly on Scrabo Hill. You’ll climb up for sweeping views of Strangford Lough, which immediately sets a scenic tone for the rest of the day. From here, you’ll explore Strangford Lough itself, renowned as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Expect to see abundant wildlife and perhaps even some marine life like dolphins or basking sharks if you’re lucky.

Next, you’ll head to the Saint Patrick Centre, where you’ll deepen your understanding of Ireland’s most famous saint. The center offers a comprehensive look at his life and legend, providing context for the subsequent visits to Down Cathedral—the historic site where Saint Patrick’s reputed grave lies. Standing on the hilltop, you’ll get a chance to see the massive granite marker that signifies his resting place, along with the legend of other saints buried there like Brigid and Columcille.

From there, the tour takes you to Slieve Patrick Statue, which involves climbing a mountain to enjoy more spectacular views. It’s a moment to stretch your legs and enjoy the landscape from a higher vantage point. Not far from this is Saul Church, often considered Ireland’s first Christian church, and a peaceful spot to reflect on the early days of Christianity in Ireland.

Historic Monastic and Film Locations

A highlight for many, especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, is the visit to Inch Abbey. This ruined monastic site appears in numerous episodes and offers an atmospheric glimpse into Ireland’s medieval architecture. The ruins, dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, are especially atmospheric and make for great photos, with the added bonus of being less crowded than other popular sites.

Adjacent to Inch Abbey, you’ll find Struell Wells, a set of ancient holy wells thought to have healing powers. Pilgrims have visited these springs for centuries, and even today, some use them for healing purposes. The historical significance combined with the tranquil setting makes this stop both meaningful and calming.

The tour also takes you across Strangford Lough via a short car ferry from Portaferry to Strangford Village. This crossing, included in the price, offers lovely views and a chance to spot marine life while capturing some memorable photos.

Cultural and Heritage Insights

Back on land, you’ll visit Down County Museum, housed in a historic eighteenth-century gaol. It offers fascinating exhibits about County Down’s history and culture, providing an enriching context for the day. The experience concludes with a scenic drive back to Belfast, passing through charming villages before stopping at the Parliament Buildings, where you’ll get a quick photo opportunity.

Finally, you’ll explore Castle Ward, a National Trust property famous as the filming location of Winterfell in Game of Thrones. This site not only offers a chance to walk around the iconic medieval-style set but also provides an insight into the series’ filming history. For fans, this is a highlight, especially if you want to see where much of season one was shot.

C. S. Lewis Square rounds out the day, with its nod to the author of The Chronicles of Narnia, adding a literary touch to your adventure.

What the Tour Means for You

This tour excels because of its flexibility and depth. As a private experience, it’s perfect if you prefer your schedule tailored and your guide attentive. The included admission tickets to key sites like Down Cathedral, Inch Abbey, and Struell Wells save you time and money, while the ferry ride adds a fun element to the day.

The price point of around $964 per person reflects the private transportation, diverse stops, and extensive included entries. For travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a personalized approach, it offers good value, especially considering the wide array of attractions covered.

The guide’s knowledge seems to be a stand-out feature, with reviews praising their ability to make each stop interesting and informative. If you appreciate learning about local legends and history from someone who’s well-versed, this tour is likely to satisfy.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience suits travelers who want to see a broad selection of Ireland’s landmarks, scenic spots, and filming locations in a single day, without the stress of planning or navigating public transport. It’s ideal for those who value comfort and customization, and who aren’t overly concerned about the cost. History buffs, Game of Thrones fans, and anyone keen on culture will find plenty to love here.

Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers a lot, it’s quite packed, and some stops might feel rushed if you want more time at each location. The price is on the higher side, so it’s probably better suited for those willing to invest a bit more for a personalized, all-inclusive experience. Also, if you’re not interested in filming sites or religious landmarks, some parts might seem less relevant.

The tour’s length and stops mean you should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with some walking and climbing involved, especially at Scrabo Tower and Slieve Patrick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, flexible, and insider-friendly way to explore Northern Ireland’s highlights—especially if you’re curious about Saint Patrick, medieval ruins, and Game of Thrones filming sites—this private tour hits the mark. The combination of scenic views, historic sites, and cinematic locations makes it a rich experience, particularly if you value guided insights and private transport.

Just be ready for a full day, and budget accordingly. For those who want a curated, stress-free way to discover this beautiful corner of Ireland, this tour seems to deliver on its promises, with the added bonus of being tailored just for you.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it involves some walking, climbing stairs at Scrabo Tower, and a full day of sightseeing. Families with children who enjoy history and scenic views might find it enjoyable, but it’s best suited for older kids and teenagers comfortable with a busy schedule.

What does the price include?
The cost covers private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, round-trip transfers from Belfast, ferry tickets across Strangford Lough, and admission to several sites like Down County Museum, Down Cathedral, Inch Abbey, and Struell Wells.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, you can upgrade to a VIP chauffeur package for an extra £30, and entrance to Castle Ward (the Winterfell filming location) is not included, so you might want to add that if you’re a Game of Thrones fan.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. As a private tour, your driver and guide will be happy to tailor the stops to your interests, possibly adding more time at specific sites or skipping some if you prefer.

How long does the tour last?
It typically runs about 6 to 8 hours, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor sightseeing and views from Scrabo Tower and Slieve Patrick.

If you’re craving a personalized day that blends history, nature, and culture with a sprinkle of pop culture, this private St. Patrick Trail could be a memorable way to see Northern Ireland. It’s well-suited for travelers who prefer comfort, flexibility, and a guided experience that covers a lot of ground in one go.